Can I save a plant with mushy stems?

If the stem is mushy, the rot has likely reached the core. Your best bet is to cut off healthy stem tips and propagate them in fresh soil.

How often should I water to avoid rot?

Water every 10 to 21 days, but only when the top half of the soil is dry.

Crown of Thorns: root rot, causes and fixes

Check these first

Touch the soil to see if it is soggy.
Check the bottom of the pot for drainage holes.
Gently lift the plant to inspect the roots for a foul smell.

Likely causes

Poor Drainage
Most likely
How to tell: The soil remains soggy and the plant looks wilted despite having wet soil.
What to do: Repot the plant into a container with drainage holes using a well draining cactus mix. Trim away any black or mushy roots with clean scissors.
Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The base of the stem turns brown or black and feels soft to the touch.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and let the soil dry out completely. If the rot has spread to the main stem, you may need to take cuttings to propagate a new plant.

Root rot in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your crown of thorns

The list above covers the usual causes. Pocket Botanist looks at a photo of your actual plant and tells you the likely cause, how serious it is, and what to try first. Identification and a health check are free.

When to worry

If the main stem is soft or mushy, the rot is advanced and the plant may be difficult to save. If only a few roots are affected, the plant can recover with better care.

Stopping it coming back

Always use a fast draining soil mix and wait until the top half of the soil is dry before you water.

Crown of Thorns: root rot? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your crown of thorns and Pocket Botanist tells you which cause is most likely, how serious it is, and what to try first. A few checks a day are free. Save the plant and you get care reminders timed for it.

Get the app · Or check it from a photo now, free

Questions people ask

Can I save a plant with mushy stems?: If the stem is mushy, the rot has likely reached the core. Your best bet is to cut off healthy stem tips and propagate them in fresh soil.
How often should I water to avoid rot?: Water every 10 to 21 days, but only when the top half of the soil is dry.

How do I fix root rot on my Crown of Thorns?